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Summary
The Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) has affirmed its support for the Special Seats Bill, describing it as a key step to tackle the persistent underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s governance.
The Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) has reaffirmed its support for the passage of the Special Seats Reserved for Women Bill at the National Public Hearing on Constitutional Reforms scheduled for Monday, September 22, 2025.
In a statement signed by the Chairperson of the Women’s Political Participation Technical Working Group, Ebere Ifendu, the Bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to create additional seats exclusively for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.
According to Ifendu, the move represents a critical step in tackling the chronic underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s governance structures. Ifendu described the Bill as a historic opportunity to advance gender inclusion in Nigeria’s democracy.
“This Bill is not about handouts; it is about justice, equity, and fairness. Nigerian women are more than capable, but we need a constitutional framework that removes structural barriers and guarantees our rightful place in governance,” she said.
Ifendu stressed that once enacted, the Bill will promote inclusive governance, broaden citizen representation, and ensure that women’s perspectives shape policies at all levels.
She urged members of the National Assembly, state legislators, political parties, the media, and the general public to give support.
